Japan began the match with intent, creating an early opportunity in the second minute when Hisatsugu Ishii fired a long-range shot over the bar. The Japanese continued to press, with Yotaro Nakajima\u2019s dangerous cross cleared by Jonny Yull, and Rento Takaoka's setup for Ishii in the 14th minute pulling wide of the target. Australia\u2019s defense held firm and the Young Socceroos were forced to weather a period of pressure.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Musa Toure proved to be a constant threat on the left flank, but despite his pace and power, Japan\u2019s Kaito Tsuchiya stood his ground. Australia\u2019s first real chance came in the 33rd minute when Toure failed to convert Alexander Badolato\u2019s long ball, shooting high when one-on-one with keeper Wataru Goto. Paul Okon had a similar chance in the 38th minute, but his effort was easily blocked by the Japanese defense.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Japan nearly broke the deadlock in the 43rd minute when Ishii\u2019s deflected pass found Takaoka, but the latter\u2019s shot sailed high.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The breakthrough came in the 49th minute, when Luka Jovanovic\u2019s clever ball set Jonny Yull free, who squared it to Toure. The forward calmly slid it past Goto to give Australia the lead. Japan responded, but Kazunari Kita\u2019s tame shot in the 54th minute was easily saved by Steven Hall, and Yuto Ozeki's powerful long-range effort rattled the bar.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Japan nearly broke the deadlock in the 43rd minute when Ishii\u2019s deflected pass found Takaoka, but the latter\u2019s shot sailed high.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
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